George Dickel Classic No. 8 Tennessee Whisky

Background & The Pour Man's Proof

When most people think "Tennessee Whisky," one name usually jumps to mind (looking at you, Jack Daniel's Old No. 7). But just down the road in Cascade Hollow, Tullahoma, there's another historic distillery quietly doing its thing: George Dickel. Founded way back in the late 1800s (with some Prohibition-related interruptions), Dickel follows the same unique process that legally defines Tennessee Whisky: filtering the new-make spirit through sugar maple charcoal before it goes into the barrel. This extra step, often called the Lincoln County Process, is meant to mellow the spirit. Dickel even chills their whisky before this charcoal filtering, believing it makes the spirit smoother (they call it "Chill Charcoal Mellowing").

The Classic No. 8 is their flagship, 80-proof expression (unlike their higher-proof No. 12). It's typically priced very competitively, often landing comfortably under $25, making it a direct competitor to Jack Daniel's and a prime candidate for the "Value-Driven Explorer." It offers a chance to taste that distinct Tennessee character from a different, arguably more traditional, perspective.

Tasting Notes (in Plain English)

Right away, you know this isn't just another bourbon. The nose is softer than many bourbons at this price. You get sweet corn, a hint of maple syrup, maybe some vanilla, and a distinct charcoal or mineral note that is classic Dickel. There's also sometimes a subtle fruitiness, like apple or pear, and a touch of nuttiness. It smells mellow and approachable.

The taste is quite smooth and relatively light-bodied, especially compared to the 100-proof bonded bourbons. The sweetness comes through first – corn, maple, maybe a bit of caramel – followed by that characteristic charcoal/flinty minerality. There's a gentle oak spice, but it's very much in the background. The finish is clean, fairly short, and leaves you with a lingering sweetness and that subtle mineral note. It's an easy-drinking, mellow whisky.

Final Verdict: Would I Buy It Again?

Score: 4/5 (A Strong "Yes" / Great Value Tennessee Whisky)

This is a solid 4/5, a "Strong Yes" for us. George Dickel No. 8 is an excellent representation of the Tennessee Whisky style at a fantastic price. If you enjoy Jack Daniel's but sometimes find it a bit too assertive or sweet, Dickel No. 8 offers a slightly softer, smoother, and more mineral-driven alternative that feels genuinely different.

It doesn't get a perfect 5/5 because, at 80 proof, it can sometimes feel a bit thin, especially if you're adding ice or using it in cocktails where it might get slightly lost. It's primarily an easy sipper rather than a robust mixer. But for what it is – an affordable, smooth, and characterful example of classic Tennessee Whisky – it absolutely delivers. It’s a great "alternative" to have on your shelf when you want something mellow and easy-drinking that still offers a distinct sense of place. For the price, it's a very smart buy, and one we'll definitely make again.